CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a device and a system for supporting
and managing communication connectors, adapters, and/or ports. More particularly,
the present disclosure relates to a communication patch panel device and system, which
facilitate access to communication connectors, adapters, and/or ports supported by
the device and system.
[0003] In communications cabinets and racks, a multitude of cables are interconnected to
one another through connectors, e.g., adapters. A cable organization unit typically
has a tray or a shelf or a similar platform, which supports the connectors, e.g.,
adapters. Examples of cable organization units include patch panels.
[0004] A patch panel houses cable connectors and in the majority of cases is rack mounted.
The patch panel typically is two-sided. Typically, the front of the patch panel provides
for connections to relatively short cables, and the rear of the patch panel usually
provides for connection to relatively long wires or cables. This setup facilitates
the performance of temporary alterations to the front of the patch panel without disturbing
the connections in the rear. Sometimes, the cables connected to the front of the patch
panel may interconnect different patch panels and may be relatively short or may be
part of longer cables. The patch panel facilitates interconnecting, monitoring, and
circuit testing of equipment without necessitating costly switching equipment.
[0005] Early applications for patch panels were for telephone exchanges, where they are
still used albeit in a more automated form. Patch panels are also used extensively
in the entertainment industry, e.g., in recording and television studios. They are
also used in concert halls to manage connections among equipment, e.g., microphones,
speakers, and other electronic equipment. Patch panels are valued for such purposes
not only for their convenience and relative cost effectiveness, but also because they
make it easier to identify problems such as feedback, ground loops, and static.
[0006] Traditional fiber optic cable organization units include fiber optic shelves having
a single patch panel or multiple modular panels on the front patching side of the
shelf. It is desirable to provide patch panels having increased connector port density,
i.e., the number of locations or ports per unit volume of area for providing connections.
To this end, smaller sized connectors are increasingly being utilized.
[0007] A variety of optical fiber connectors are available, with the Subscriber Connector
(SC) and the Lucent Connector (LC) being the most common. The differences among the
types of connectors include dimensions and methods of mechanical coupling. For instance,
SC connectors use a round 2.5 mm ferrule to hold a single fiber and use a push-on/pull-off
mating mechanism. The ferrule of an LC connector is half the size as that of an SC
connector, measuring only 1.25 mm. LC connectors use a retaining tab mechanism, which
is similar to that found on a household phone connector.
[0008] In data communication and telecommunication applications, small connectors, e.g.,
LC, are increasingly replacing traditional connectors, e.g., SC. The main advantage
of small connectors over larger sized connectors is the ability to provide a higher
number of fibers per unit of rack space. Since the LC connector is roughly half the
size as the SC connector, the placement of almost twice the number of connectors is
possible within the same amount of space by using the LC connector instead of the
SC connector.
[0009] However, there are disadvantages associated with using smaller connectors. As more
connectors are placed within the same amount of space, accessing the connectors which
is often performed by hand may present a challenge. Adult fingers typically have a
diameter of 16 mm to 20 mm. Some people may have larger or misshapen fingers. Therefore,
the use of small connectors, such as the LC having a 1.25 mm diameter ferrule, may
be especially problematic for technicians having larger or less dexterous hands. Commonly,
LC connectors are held together in a duplex configuration with a plastic clip. While
holding smaller sized connectors in a duplex configuration may make it easier for
a technician to access and/or remove LC connectors, it also means that two connectors
are necessarily affected by any given servicing procedure.
[0010] There is a continuing need for new devices and systems to facilitate access communication
adapters and/or cables supported by communication patching devices and systems.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present disclosure is generally related to a communication patch panel and a
communication patching system. In particular, the present disclosure is related to
a patch panel that facilitates both the placement of multiple, relatively small connectors
in close proximity to each other and the manipulation and/or maintenance of those
connectors.
[0012] In an embodiment, a communication patch panel device may include a plurality of ports
that are each operably connectable to a cable. A connection means may be connected
to the plurality of ports. The connection means may be transitionable between a first
state and a second state. In the first state, the connection means may have a first
length along which the ports are positionable. In the second state, the connection
means may have a second length in which the ports are positionable. The second length
may exceed the first length. In the first state, adjacent ones of the ports may be
spaced apart a first distance. In the second state, adjacent ones of the ports may
be positionable to be spaced apart a second distance, which exceeds the first distance.
In the second state, the ports may be positioned equidistance from one another. The
connection means may include a resilient element that positions the ports at a predetermined
spacing from one another when the patch panel is in the second state.
[0013] The connection means may include one or more rails that are slidable relative to
one another to define the first length, the second length, and intermediate lengths
therebetween. The one or more rails may be coupled to the plurality of ports to define
a distance between the ports. Slidable movement of the one or more rails relative
to one another may adjust the distance between the ports to transition the connection
means amongst the first, second, and intermediate lengths. The connection means may
include a bar having an adjustable length transitionable among a first length, a second
length, and intermediate lengths therebetween. The bar may be coupled to the plurality
of ports to define a gap distance between adjacent ones of the plurality of ports,
which corresponds to the adjustable length of the bar. The connection means may include
a tray and a plurality of arms including a first portion and a second portion. The
first portion of each arm may be pivotably coupled to the tray. The second portion
of each arm may be operatively coupled to one of the plurality of ports, and pivoting
of the arms may effect transitioning of the connection means between the first and
second states.
[0014] In an embodiment, a communication patch panel device may include a plurality of attachment
members. Each attachment member may include a movable member having a connector having
a front surface. The movable members may be movable relative to one another to transition
the communication patch panel device between a first condition in which the front
surfaces are substantially coplanar and a second condition in which the front surfaces
are in different respective planes. The connector may be separable from the movable
member. The connector may be configured to be releasably coupled to a first cable
at the front surface. The connector may further include a back surface, which may
be configured to be releasably coupled to a second cable. The movable members may
be rotatable relative to one another. The patch panel device may further include a
tray defining a surface and at least one securement member coupling the attachment
members to the tray. The movable member may define an angle with respect to the surface
of the tray, and the angle may be adjustable. In an embodiment, the angle may be adjusted
to be between 0 and 135 degrees, and in a more particular embodiment, the angle may
be adjusted to be between 0 and 90 degrees.
[0015] The communication patch panel devices described above may be configured to be supported
by a housing. The housing may include a front face, and the panel may be movable away
from the front face to transition from the first state to the second state when supported
by the housing. In an embodiment, a communication patch panel device may include a
tray having a length that is configured to be translatable into and out from a housing.
[0016] In an embodiment, a communication patch panel system may include a housing including
a front end and a back end, a patch panel device including a tray that is movable
along an axis extending from the front end to the back end of the housing, and a cable
tensioner. The cable tensioner may include a first end that is secured relative to
the housing and a second end that is secured to the tray. The cable tensioner may
be formed from a compliant or bendable material. The cable tensioner may be transitionable
between a first state and a second state in which a portion of the tensioner has a
greater radius of curvature than in the first state in response to translation of
the tray between the front and back ends of the housing.
[0017] These and other features of the present disclosure will be more fully described with
reference to the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] By way of description only, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described
herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1A is a front perspective view of a communication patching system including multiple
patch panel devices shown in a first state;
Fig. 1B is the communication patching system of Fig. 1A shown in a second state;
Fig. 2A is one of the patch panel devices of Fig. 1A shown in a first state;
Fig. 2B is the patch panel device of Fig. 2A shown in a second state;
Fig. 2C is an enlarged view of the indicated area of Fig. 2B;
Fig. 3A is a top view of another embodiment of a patch panel device;
Fig. 3B is a top view of yet another embodiment of a patch panel device;
Fig. 4 is a front view of a portion of an embodiment of a patch panel device;
Fig. 5 is a front view of a portion of another embodiment of a patch panel device;
Fig. 6 is a front view of a portion of yet another embodiment of a patch panel device
including multiple ports;
Fig. 6A is a perspective view of one of the ports of Fig. 6;
Fig. 7A is a top view of a patch panel device shown in a first state;
Fig. 7B is a top view of the patch panel device of Fig. 7A shown in a second state;
Fig. 8A is a perspective view of a still further embodiment of a patch panel device
shown in a first state;
Fig. 8B is a perspective view of the patch panel device of Fig. 8A shown in a second
state;
Fig. 9A is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a patch panel device shown
in a first state;
Fig. 9B is a perspective view of the patch panel device of Fig. 9A shown in a second
state;
Fig. 10 is a front perspective view of a communication patching system including multiple
patch panel devices;
Fig. 11 is a perspective view of one of the patch panel devices of Fig. 10 including
a plurality of attachment members;
Fig. 12A is a view of one of the attachment members of Fig. 11 shown in a first state;
Fig. 12B is a view of the attachment member of Fig. 12A shown in a second state;
Fig. 13 is a partial view of the attachment member of Fig. 12A with parts shown separated;
Fig. 14A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a patch panel device including
a plurality of attachment members;
Fig. 14B is a perspective view of the patch panel device of Fig. 14A in which cables
have been separated from one of the attachment members;
Fig. 14C is a perspective view of one of the attachment members of Fig. 14A shown
in a first condition;
Fig. 14D is a perspective view of one of the attachment members of Fig. 14A shown
in a second condition;
Fig. 15A is a top view of a communication patching system shown in a first state;
Fig. 15B is a top view of the communication patching system of Fig. 15A shown in a
second state; and
Fig. 16 is a top view of a cable tensioner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] Particular embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference
to the accompanying drawings. In the figures and in the description that follow, in
which like reference numerals identify similar or identical elements, the term "proximal"
will refer to the end of the device that is closest to the operator or user during
use, while the term "distal" will refer to the end of the device that is farther from
the operator or user during use.
[0020] A communication patching system 100 will now be described with reference to Figs.
1A and 1B. The communication patching system 100 includes a housing 2, e.g., a rack
or a cabinet. The housing 2 supports one or more patch panel devices 110. The housing
2 defines a length L, a height H, and a width W
1. Each patch panel device 110 includes a plurality of adapters or ports 7, each port
7 having a receptacle 5 for securing a cable C (Fig. 1B) therein. The receptacle 5
of the port 7 may be operatively coupled to one or more cables C, e.g., the receptacle
5 may be in a simplex or in a duplex configuration. The port 7 may include a mounting
portion 51 that frames the port 7 and facilitates securing of the port 7, or the receptacle
5, to connection means, e.g., rails 41, 43 (Fig. 2C). In embodiments, the mounting
portion 51 of the port 7 may be integrally formed with the port 7 or may be a separate
component coupled to the receptacle 5, and in some embodiments the mounting portion
may form a part of a connection means to which the receptacle 5 is connected, as described
below.
[0021] The patch panel device 110 includes a tab 11 on either end of the patch panel device
110 to facilitate a user's grasping or handling of the patch panel device 110. The
density of the number of ports 7 supported by the housing 2 is a function of the dimensions
of the housing 2. As shown in Fig. 1A, the ports 7, each of which has a width x and
a height y, may be arranged in rows and columns in which the number of rows of ports
7 is directly correlated to the height H and the number of columns of ports 7 is directly
correlated to the width W
1.
[0022] The communication patching system 100 is transitionable between a first state (Fig.
1A) and a second state (Fig. 1B). In the first state, the one or more patch panel
devices 110 are in positioned at a first location with respect to the proximal end
or face P of the housing 2. As shown in Fig. 1A, the patch panel devices 110 may be
substantially flush with respect to the face P of the housing 2. In the second state,
one or more of the patch panel devices 110 is moved proximally in the direction of
directional arrow Z away from the proximal end or face P of the housing 2. As the
patch panel device 110 is moved proximally, the ports 7 may be positionable to be
spaced apart from one another by a gap or spacing distance d (Fig. 1B) .
[0023] The patch panel device 110 is transitionable between first and second states, as
shown best in Figs. 2A and 2B respectively. The patch panel device 110 includes bars
19, which facilitate mounting of the patch panel device within the housing 2 by securing
one of the bars 19 on each of opposite sides 2a of the housing 2. A hinged arm member
114, which includes a first arm section 21 and a second arm section 31, is slidably
connected to the bar 19. The first arm section 21 includes a slot 25 which is configured
and adapted to receive a pin 27 therethrough. The pin 27 secures the first arm section
21 to the bar 19 while permitting the first arm section 21 to slide relative to the
bar 19 along the length of slot 25. The first arm section 21 and the second arm section
31 of the hinged arm 114 are pivotably connected to one another by a hinge 33, thereby
facilitating the rotation of the second arm section 31 relative to the first arm section
21.
[0024] The ports 7 may be operably coupled to a connection means 16. As the connection means
16 transitions from a first length equal to width W
1 (Fig. 2A) to a second, expanded width W
2 (Fig. 2B), the ports 7 may move, or be moveable, to be positioned spaced apart. In
an embodiment, the ports 7 are spaced apart. The ports 7 may be equidistantly spaced
apart by equal gaps or spacing distances d. However, the spacing distances d between
adjacent ports 7 may differ, i.e., be non-uniform, in the second state. In addition,
individual ports 7 may be slid or moved along the length of the connection means 16,
thereby facilitating adjusting the gap or spacing distances d between adjacent ports
7 as desired by the user or technician.
[0025] It is contemplated that the hinged arm member 114 may include a lip (not shown) that
interacts with a groove (not shown) defined within the bar 19 along a portion or substantially
the entire length of the bar 19 to provide added stability and controlled movement
of the hinged arm member 114 relative to the bar 19.
[0026] As shown best in Fig. 2C, the connection means 16 may include one or more telescopic
rails 41, 43 that are slidable with respect to each other to adjust the overall length
of the connection means 16. Although shown in Fig. 2C as having two parallel rails
41, 43, a single rail may be used. It should be noted that the greater the overall
length of the connection means 16, the greater the gap or spacing distance d achievable
between adjacent ports 7. Each of the parallel rails 41, 43 includes alternating sections
41a, 41b and 43a, 43b respectively. Sections 41a, 43a are configured and adapted to
slide within sections 41b, 43b respectively, where the ports 7 are coupled to the
sections 41b, 43b, to effect lengthening or shortening of the connections means 16.
A resilient or biasing member (not shown) may be placed within a hollowed out center
of each of the rails 41, 43 to bias the connections means 16 to one of the first or
second dimensions W
1, W
2, respectively.
[0027] The sections 41b, 43b may define an open circumference such the ports 7 will not
obstruct movement of the alternating sections 41a, 41b and 43a, 43b relative to one
another such that the ports 7 may be moved in closer proximity to one another. In
addition, the lengths of the alternating sections 41a, 41b and 43a, 43b may be selected
to facilitate placement the ports 7 in close proximity to one another, such that adjacent
ports contact each other. Each port 7 may be secured to the rails 41, 43 in a variety
of ways or may be integrally formed with the rails 41, 43. It is contemplated that
in other embodiments, the rails 41, 43 may be substituted with different connection
means. In an embodiment, the rails 41, 43 may be substituted with elastic bands.
[0028] Another embodiment of a patch panel device will now be described with respect to
Fig. 3A. A patch panel device 120A may include bars 60 that are mountable within the
housing 2 described above with respect to communication patching system 100. A sleeve
62 is pivotably connected by a hinge 227 to each of the bars 60 such that the sleeve
is angularly movable with respect to the bar 60, thereby facilitating angling of the
sleeve 62 with respect to the bar by an angle θ. An arm member 61 is slidably translatable
through each sleeve 62 in the directions of directional arrows Q. Both distal translation
of the arm member 61 outward from the sleeve 62 and an increase in an angle θ between
the sleeve and the corresponding bar 60 result in a lengthening of connection means
231. The connection means 231 may be a resilient member that will stretch in response
to an increase in the separation between distal ends 63a of the arm members 61 with
respect to each other. Tabs 63 at the distal ends 63a of the arm members 61 may facilitate
a user or technician gripping the arm members 61 and effecting both the angular and
axial movement of the arm members 61. Disposed along and connected or coupled to the
connection means 231 are n number of ports 64 that are each configured and adapted
to receive a suitable connector and/or cable. A channel 64a may be defined within
each of the ports 64, to receive the connection means therein and facilitate sliding
of the ports 64 along the length of the connection means. A resilient or biasing member
S, e.g., a spring, may be positioned at the distal end of each of the arm members
61, thereby effecting or causing transitioning of the connection means 231 to an expanded
state upon sliding the arm members 61 proximally through the sleeves 62.
[0029] As shown in Fig. 3B, a patch panel device 120B is substantially similar to the patch
panel device 120A and includes all of the features of the patch panel device 120A
with the following exception. Instead of connection means 231, which is shown as defining
a generally straight shape, a connection means 66 is used that defines a generally
arcuate shape.
[0030] Other embodiments of a connection means will now be described with reference to Figs.
4-6A. As shown in Fig. 4, a patch panel device 130 includes ports 77 that are operably
connected to one another by one or more resilient members or bands 71, 73, thereby
facilitating a stretching of the bands 71, 73 and a corresponding increase in the
spacing or gaps between the ports 77 upon application of a force as indicated by the
directional arrows F.
[0031] As shown in Fig. 5, a patch panel device 140 may include a plurality of ports 87
slidable with respect to one another along one or more rails 81, 83 that are receivable
within channels 88 that extend through the width of each port 87. Each port 87 includes
a post 82 that is operably coupled to a resilient member 84, e.g., a spring, which
extends the length of the connection means 140. The resilient member 84 uniformly
stretches upon the application of a force as indicated by the directional arrows F,
thereby facilitating equidistant spacing of the ports 87 with respect to one another.
In this embodiment, the rails 81, 83, in combination with the channels 88 and posts
82 which correspond to mounting portions of the ports 87, and the resilient member
84 form the connection means.
[0032] As shown in Figs. 6 and 6A, a patch panel device 150 may include a plurality of ports
97 including one or more bars 99 that are receivable within slots or grooves 92 defined
within each port 97. The bars 99 secure and stabilize the ports 97 with respect to
one another. In this embodiment, the bars 99 and the grooves 92, which correspond
to mounting portions of the ports 97, form the connection means. In operation, as
the ports 97 are moved toward one another, the bars 99 are received within the slots
92; as the ports 97 are moved apart from one another, the bars 99 are withdrawn from
within the slots 92.
[0033] Another embodiment of a communication patching system will now be described with
respect to Figs. 7A and 7B. A communication patching system 200 includes the housing
2 and one or more patch panel devices 205 supported therein. The patch panel device
205 includes a flexible member 204, e.g., a bar made from a shape memory material
such as nickel titanium. The flexible member 204 is received within channels 64a of
the ports 64 such that the ports 64 are slidable along the length of the flexible
member 204. The channel 64a of each port 64 may frictionally engage the flexible member
204 such that the port 64 moves in response to being moved by a user or technician,
but does not move unintentionally. Holders 201 secure the flexible member 204 to the
sides 2a of the housing 2. A bulbous region 207 of the flexible member 204 inhibits
the complete withdrawal of the flexible member 204 from the housing 2. As the flexible
member 204 is moved in the direction indicated by arrow I, the flexible member 204
bows outward from a generally straight shape to an arcuate shape. The bowing out of
the flexible member 204 results in a greater length along which the ports 64 may slide
with respect to the flexible member 204, thereby facilitating increased spacing between
adjacent ports 64.
[0034] Another embodiment of a patch panel device will now be described with reference to
Figs. 8A and 8B. A patch panel device 300A includes a connection means transitionable
between a first state (Fig. 8A) and a second state (Fig. 8B). The patch panel device
300A includes a tray 302 and a plurality of arms 306 that are each operatively coupled
in a pivotable relationship with the tray 302. Each arm 306 is operably coupled to
a port 7 including a receptacle 5 at a proximal end P of the arm 306. A pin 305 may
pivotably connect the distal end D of each arm 306 to the tray 302. The tray 302 may
be slidably received within a housing, e.g., housing 2 (Fig. 1A), such that the patch
panel device 300A is translatable in a direction toward or away from the distal end
or D of the housing 2. Bars 310 may facilitate the translation of the tray 302 with
respect to the housing 2. The bars 310 are pivotably coupled to opposing sides 301
of the tray 302. Translation of tray 302 a distance e corresponding to the length
of the bar 310 away from the housing 2 facilitates pivoting of the bars 310 by minimizing
the interaction between the bar 310 and the housing 2 that may otherwise impede such
movement. Each bar 310 includes a tab 312 that facilitates a user grasping the bar
310 and translating the tray 302 in a proximal or distal direction. Proximal translation
of the tray 302 away from the housing 2 results in the ports 7 being laterally spaced
from the face P of the housing 2. Proximal translation of the tray 302 by a distance
corresponding to the length e of the bar 310 allows each of the opposing bars 310
to pivot outwardly thereby increasing the distance H between proximal ends of the
opposing bars 310. The bars 310 may include tabs 312 to facilitate gripping or grasping
of the patch panel device 300A by the user. By increasing the distance H between the
proximal ends of the bars 310, the ports 7 may be spaced apart by a greater gap distance
G. Repositioning of the ports 7 with respect to one another such that a desired gap
distance G between ports 7 is achieved is accomplished by rotating the arms 306 about
pin 305 in or opposite to the direction indicated by arrow R. In this embodiment,
the connection means may include at least the arms 306, the bars 310, the pins 305
and the ports 7, and optionally the tabs 312.
[0035] A further embodiment of a patch panel device will now be described with reference
to Figs. 9A and 9B. A patch panel device 300B includes a connection means transitionable
between a first state (Fig. 9A) and a second state (Fig. 9B). In the first state,
adjacent ports 7 are substantially in close proximity to one another, e.g., touching.
In the second state, the adjacent ports 7 have a gap distance G between one another.
The patch panel device 300B includes tray 302 and a plurality of pivotable arms 306
that are operatively coupled to the tray 302. Each arm 306 is operatively coupled
to a port 7 including a receptacle 5. The arms 306 are radially separable in a fan-like
configuration such that gap distance G between the arms 306 is adjustable. A connector
7b, e.g., a simplex or duplex connector, may be positioned within the receptacle 5.
The arms 306 are operatively coupled to one another, as well as to bars 310, by links
308 that are joined to each other by pins 309. As the bars 310 are spread apart by
applying a force in the directions indicated by directional arrows F, thereby increasing
the distance H between the bars 310, the angle β between the links 308 is increased
and the gap distance G between adjacent ports 7 is also increased. In an embodiment,
by pulling the bars 310 apart from one another in the directions indicated by directional
arrows F, the gap distance G between each arm 306 may be substantially equal. To collapse
the array of arms 306 and transition the patch panel device 300B back to the first
state (Fig. 9A), a force in a direction opposite to that indicated by directional
arrows F may be applied such that the interaction between the bars 310 and arms 306
results in transitioning of the patch panel device 300B to the collapsed, first state,
thereby allowing the patch panel device 300B to be placed within a housing, e.g.,
housing 2. In this embodiment, the connection means may include at least the arms
306, the bars 310, the pins 305 and the ports 7, the links 308, the pins 909, and
optionally the tabs 312.
[0036] A communication patching system 400 is described with reference to Figs. 10-13. As
shown in Fig. 10, the communication patching system 400 includes housing 2, which
supports one or more patch panel devices 430. The patch panel device 430 is translatable
in or opposite to a direction indicated by arrow Z, e.g., slidable into and out from
the housing 2. The patch panel device 430 may include a tray 431 including sidebars
433 to facilitate stabilization and guidance of the patch panel device 430. A plurality
of attachment members 432, which are each configured and adapted to be operatively
coupled to cables C, are secured to the tray 431.
[0037] The attachment member 432 may include a second section 436 attached to a first section
434 by a hinge 441 that facilitates radial movement of the first section 434 relative
to the second section 436 in the directions indicated by arrows M and N. Port 7 is
releasably securable to the first section 434. In an embodiment, the first section
434 includes a window 443 and the port 7 includes a tab 441 configured and adapted
to engage the window 443 to releasably secure the port 7 to the first section 434.
[0038] In an embodiment, one of the first and second sections 434, 436 may include a ridge
or a bump 438a that is engageable with a groove or dent 438b within the other of the
first and second sections 434, 436 such that the first and second sections 434, 436
are positionable relative to one another in a plurality of positions corresponding
to the number of pairs of bumps 438a and grooves 438b.
[0039] As shown in Figs. 12A and 12B, the attachment members 432 include the first and second
sections 434, 436, and are transitionable between a first state in which the first
and second sections 434, 436 are substantially aligned along common axis J (Fig. 12A)
and a second state in which the first and second sections 434, 436 are bent with respect
to one another such that the first section 434 defines an angle φ with respect to
axis J, which extends along the length of the second section 436. The first and second
sections 434, 436 may be disposed to be contacting each other in a frictional relationship,
so as to inhibit inadvertent repositioning of the first and second sections 434, 436
with respect to each other.
[0040] In an embodiment, as shown in Fig. 13, the first and second sections 434, 436 are
configured to engage each other in a grommet-like relationship to inhibit separation
of the first and second sections 434, 436. The first section 434 may include a lip
437a, which is configured to engage an aperture 437, i.e., the lip 437a substantially
follows along and contacts the perimeter of the aperture 437, of the second section
436 to inhibit separation of the first section 434 from the second section 436.
[0041] As shown best in Fig. 11, a plurality of attachment members 432 is secured to the
tray 431. In an embodiment, the attachment members 432 may be linearly arranged with
respect to one another along a common axis I. Each attachment member 432 includes
the first section 434 and the second section 436, which are pivotably secured to each
other. The second section 436 is fixedly secured to the tray 431. In an embodiment,
the second section 436 may include one or more holes 439 configured and adapted to
receive a suitable device 440, e.g., a screw, nail, tack, or the like, to facilitate
securing of the attachment member 432 to the tray 431. In an embodiment, the second
section 436 is fixedly secured to the tray 431 by an adhesive.
[0042] As shown best in Fig. 10, the plurality of patch panel devices 430 may be arranged
along height H of the housing 2. During use, the communication patching system 400
facilitates access to the ports 7 that are operatively coupled to the attachment members
432. As shown in Fig. 10, tray 431 is translated away from the face P of the housing
2 in the direction of arrow Z. Translating the tray 431 away from the face P of the
housing 2 separates the proximal end 401 of the patch panel device 430 from adjacent
rows of patch panel devices 430. Once the patch panel device 430 is translated a sufficient
distance in the direction of arrow Z, the first section 434 of one or more of the
attachment members 432 may be radially translated about an axis parallel to the axis
I (see FIG. 11), such as in direction M towards a top T of the housing 2 or in direction
N towards a bottom B of the housing 2. Thus, the first section 434 of an attachment
member 432 may be spaced apart from adjacently positioned attachment members 432 of
the same patch panel device 430, as well as attachment members 432 of attachment members
432 of patch panel devices 430 positioned in adjacent rows along height H of the housing
2.
[0043] Another embodiment of a patch panel device is described with reference to Figs. 14A-14D.
A patch panel device 440 may include a plurality of attachment members 443 that are
positioned adjacent to one another. Each attachment member may include a movable member
446, which is rotatable or pivotable relative to a movable member of another attachment
member. The movable members 446 of adjacent members 443 may be operatively coupled
to one another to permit rotation of one of the movable members 446 relative to the
other movable member. In an embodiment, the movable members 446 may be coupled to
one another in a snap-fit connection that permits radial movement of the movable members
446 relative to one another. At least two securement members 444 may be secured to
opposing ends of the plurality of attachment members 443 and secure the attachment
members 443 to a tray 441. In another embodiment, a securement member 444 may be positioned
between each of the movable members 443. Each of the movable members 446 may be operatively
coupled to one or more cables C3, which are shown only in part. The movable member
446 may include a cable adapter or connector 449, which may include a front surface
449a that may be operatively coupled to one cable C3 and a back surface 449b that
may be operatively coupled to another cable C3. The movable member 446 may include
a receptacle 447 in which the connector 449 may be releasably secured such that the
connector 449 may be separated from the attachment member 443.
[0044] The movable members 446 may be positioned spaced a distance from an edge 441a of
the tray 441 to permit the movable members 446 to rotate relative to the tray 441.
In one embodiment, the tray 441 may include a cut-out (not shown) at the movable members
to facilitate a range of movement of the movable members 446 relative to the tray
441. The tray 441 may have an axis z extending along its length, an axis y extending
along its height, and an axis x extending its width. The securement member 444 may
be coaxially aligned with the axis z extending along the length of the tray 441. A
plurality of securement members 444 may be positioned in a row extending along axis
x along the width of the tray 441.
[0045] As shown in Figs. 14C-14D, the securement member 444 and a movable member 446 of
the attachment member 443 may be pivotably connected to one another at a pivot point
448 such that the movable member 446 may be radially moved relative to the securement
member 444 to define an angle G therebetween. In particular, the movable member 446
may radially pivot between the y and z axes and the angle G may be defined therebetween.
When secured to the tray 441, the movable member 446 may pivot in a counter-clockwise
direction T, but may be inhibited from pivoting in the opposite, clockwise direction
by the tray 441. However, as discussed above, cut-outs in the tray 441 may reduce
the interaction between the tray 441 and the movable member 446 to facilitate a greater
range of movement of the movable member 446 with respect to the tray 441. In an embodiment,
the angle G may be adjusted within a range between 0 and 135 degrees. In another embodiment,
the angle G may be adjusted within a range between 0 and 90 degrees. For example,
in one embodiment, the movable members 446 may be movable relative to one another
to transition the patch panel device 440 between a first condition in which front
surfaces 451 of the movable members 446 are substantially coplanar, and adjacent ones
of the members 446 are spaced apart a first distance or contact each other, and a
second condition in which the front surfaces 451 of respective adjacent members 446
are in different planes in accordance with the angle G that one of the adjacent members
446 is pivoted or rotated relative to the other adjacent members 446, where the other
member 446 may or may not be at the same position as in the first condition.
[0046] As described with respect to the patching system 400, a plurality of patch panel
devices 440 may also be supported within housing 2, and may be translatable into or
out from the housing 2 in a direction along axis z. Once spaced apart from the housing
2, the movable member 446 may be pivoted with respect to the securement member 444,
thereby spacing the surfaces 449a, 449b of the connector 449 from any adjacent connector
449 such that the cables C3 may be more accessible and readily grasped by a user to
detach the cable C from the cable adapter or connector 449 of the movable member 446
(as shown in Fig. 14B).
[0047] A system for managing cables, e.g., cables C, is described with reference to Figs.
15A and 15B. Cable management system 500 includes any suitable patch panel device
including but not limited to patch panel devices 110, 120A, 120B, 130, 140, 150, 205,
300A, 300B, 430, and 440. In an embodiment, as shown in Figs. 15A and 15B, the cable
management system 500 includes patch panel device 300B. The cable management system
500 includes a cable tensioner 510 that is transitionable between a first state (Fig.
15A) and a second state. The tensioner 510 is contracted or bent to a lesser extent
in the second state than in the first state (Fig. 15B). The cable tensioner 510 is
adapted such that, in any shape that the tensioner 510 may be configured during use,
any portion of a cable C extending coupled to a surface of the tensioner 510 that
is bent has at least a minimum radius of curvature, thereby avoiding damage to the
cable and/or maintaining a desired level of optical energy transmittance through the
cable. For example, the cable C may be coupled to an outer surface 540 of the tensioner
510 or alternatively an inner surface of the tensioner 510 which is configured as
a deformable U-shaped groove.
[0048] As discussed with respect to the patch panel devices 110, 120A, 120B, 130, 140, 150,
200, 300A, 300B, 430, and 440, the patch panel devices are translatable away from
the face P of housing 2. As the patch panel devices are translated away from the face
P of housing 2, a first length portion Ca of cables C will correspondingly move. It
is desirable that the movement of the cables C be controlled and managed such that
the cables C, when bent, have at least a minimum bending radius, and also to inhibit
the cables C, and in particular the first length portion Ca thereof, from interfering
with the translation of the patch panel device with respect to housing 2.
[0049] As shown in Figs. 15A and 15B, the first length portion Ca of cables C may be operatively
coupled to distal ends 7a of the ports 7, and a second length portion Cb of cables
C2 may be operatively coupled to the proximal ends 7b of the port 7. The housing 2
may include cable guides and supports. In an embodiment, the second length portion
Cb of cables C2 is supported and guided by guides 515, 517, which provide support
and guidance to the cables C2. The second length portion Cb of cables C2, which are
connected to the proximal ends 7b of ports 7, may be supported by the guide 517, which
defines a plane parallel to that of the tray 302, and extend coupled to the outer
surface 540 of the cable tensioner 510 toward the guide 515. The guide 517 may guide
the second grouping of cables Cb toward the cable tensioner 510 and to the guide 517
which may run entirely or partially along the length L of the housing 2. In another
embodiment, the second length portion Cb of cables C2 is not operatively coupled to
the cable tensioner 510.
[0050] The cable tensioner 510 includes a longitudinally extending, bendable member 514.
The bendable member 514 may be formed from a material having shape memory properties,
e.g, the bendable member 514 may be biased toward a bent shape. The bendable member
514 may be formed from any suitable material including, e.g., a polymer such as nylon
or a shape memory material such as nickel titanium.
[0051] In an embodiment, the bendable member 514 may be formed from a material having shape
memory properties, e.g., nickel titanium. The bendable member 514 may be biased toward
a first state having a predetermined curvature or bent shape (Fig. 15A). The bendable
member 514 is configured to be coupled to the cables C and C2. In an embodiment, the
bendable member 514 includes protrusions 512 that include a head 532 and a neck 522.
The neck 522 may be configured to receive the cables C and C2 extending therethrough,
and provides support to the cables C and C2 placed between the head 532 and the bendable
member 514. The head 532 may frictionally engage the cables 514 to inhibit separation
of the cables C and C2 from the bendable member 514. The ends 507, 509 of the cable
tensioner 510 are generally opposing. One of the ends 507 is secured to the tray 302
of the patch panel device 300B, and the other end 509 is secured to a distal end of
the housing 2 or to another tray 502 that is secured to the back of the housing 2
and is generally coplanar with the tray 302.
[0052] During use, translating the patch panel device 300B away from the face 2 of the housing
2 results in the distance between the opposing ends 507, 509 of the bendable member
to transition from distance K1 to distance K2, where K2 is greater than K1. Movement
of the opposing ends 507, 509 towards each other results in the bendable member 514
bending or having a bowed outward shape. Conversely, movement of the opposing ends
507, 509 apart straightens the bendable member 514. Thus, the cables 509 move in a
controlled manner with the bending able member 514, thereby inhibiting bending of
the cables C to have a radius of curvature less than a minimum radius of curvature
and the cables potentially interfering with movement of the tray 302.
[0053] Another embodiment of a cable tensionser is shown and described with reference to
Fig. 16. Cable tensioner 600 includes a guide groove 604, a first tensioner member
605, and a second tensioner member 606. The first and second tensioner members 605,
606 are pivotable with respect to each other in a scissor-like relationship. The tensioner
600 may be attached to a horizontally aligned tray, such as the trays described above
with reference to the other embodiments, of the housing 2, such that the guide groove
604 is fixed in orientation with respect to a distal portion of the housing 2, e.g.,
tray 302 (Figs. 15A-15B), and the proximal ends of the cable tensioner 600 are secured
to a tray of a patch panel, e.g., tray 302. The first and second tensioner members
605, 606 may be joined to each other at pivot point 601. The proximal ends of the
first and second tensioner members 605, 606 may be operatively coupled to the tray,
e.g, tray 302 of a patch panel. Cable C4 may be operatively coupled to the first and
second tensioner members 605, 606 and guided around the guide groove 604, which has
a predefined radius of curvature. As the tray of the patch panel, e.g, tray 502, is
translated, the orientation of the guide groove 604 relative to the tray remains fixed
and the angle defined between the cable tensioner members 605, 606 changes, such that
the cable tensioner 600 takes up the slack in the cable C by the members 605, 606
rotating about the pivot 601 toward each other as the tray is moved into the housing
2 and sufficient slack in the cable C4 is provided by the cable tensioner as the tray
is moved out of and away from the housing 2 by the members 605, 606 rotating about
the pivot point 601 away from each other.
[0054] In any of the embodiments described herein, it is to be understood that any suitable
connector may be used. For example, an LC type connector may be used. However, an
LC connector is only one example of a small form connector that may be used. Differently
sized connectors, whether larger or smaller may be used. As discussed above, connectors
may be configured to be coupled to one or more cables, e.g., simplex or duplex. Specific
connectors shown and described herein are merely illustrative embodiments. Connectors
that are differently configured and/or sized may be utilized without deviating from
the scope and spirit of the present invention.
[0055] Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments,
it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles
and applications of the present invention. It is to be understood unless otherwise
indicated herein that the figures are not intended to be to scale. It is therefore
to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments
and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope
of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
[0056] There is presented a communication patch panel device, comprising a plurality of
ports each operably connectable to a cable; and a connection means connected to the
plurality of ports, wherein the connection means is transitionable between a first
state in which the connection means has a first length along which the ports are positionable
and a second state in which the connection means has a second length along which the
ports are positionable, the second length exceeding the first length.
[0057] In the first state, adjacent ones of the ports may be spaced apart a first distance
and in the second state, the adjacent ones of the ports may be positionable to be
spaced apart a second distance, the second distance exceeding the first distance.
[0058] In the second state, the ports may be positioned spaced equidistant from one another.
[0059] The connection may include a resilient element that positions the ports at a predetermined
spacing from one another when the patch panel is in the second state.
[0060] The connection means may alternatively include one or more rails that are slidable
relative to one another to define the first length, the second length, and intermediate
lengths therebetween. The one or more rails may be coupled to the plurality of ports
to define a distance between the ports. Slidable movement of the one or more rails
relative to one another may adjust the distance between the ports to transition the
connection means amongst the first, second and intermediate lengths.
[0061] The connection means may alternatively include a bar having an adjustable length
transitionable among a first length, a second length, and intermediate lengths therebetween,
the bar being coupled to the plurality of ports to define a gap distance between adjacent
ones of the plurality of ports, the gap distance corresponding to the adjustable length
of the bar.
[0062] The communication panel may be configured to be supported by a housing.
[0063] The housing may include a front face, wherein the panel is movable away from the
front face to transition from the first state to the second state when the panel is
supported by the housing.
[0064] The connection means may comprise: a tray; and a plurality of arms including a first
portion and a second portion, the first portion of each arm pivotably coupled to the
tray, the second portion of each arm operatively coupled to one of the plurality of
ports, wherein pivoting of the arms effects transitioning of the connection means
between the first and second states.
[0065] In a further embodiment, a communication patch panel device may comprise: a plurality
of attachment members, each attachment member including a movable member having a
connector having a front surface, the movable members being movable relative to one
another to transition the communication patch panel device between a first condition
in which the front surfaces are substantially coplanar and a second condition in which
the front surfaces are in different respective planes.
[0066] The connector may be separable from the movable member.
[0067] The connector may alternatively be configured to be releasably coupled to a first
cable at the front surface.
[0068] The connector may alternatively further include a back surface, the back surface
being configured to be releasably coupled to a second cable.
[0069] The movable members may be rotatable relative to one another.
[0070] The communication patch panel device may alternatively further comprise a tray defining
a surface and at least one securement member coupling the attachment members to the
tray, wherein the moveable member defines an angle with respect to the surface of
the tray, the angle being adjustable.
[0071] The angle may be adjustable between 0 and 135 degrees.
[0072] In a further embodiment, a communication patch panel system may comprise: a housing
including a front end and a back end; a patch panel device including a tray, the tray
movable along an axis extending from the front end to the back end of the housing;
and a cable tensioner including a first end and a second end, the first end of the
cable tensioner secured fixedly in position relative to the housing, the second end
of the cable tensioner secured to the tray, the cable tensioner operatively securable
to a cable, the cable tensioner transitionable between a first state and a second
state in which a portion of the tensioner has a greater radius of curvature than in
the first state in response to translation of the tray between the front end and the
back end of the housing.
[0073] The cable tensioner may further include a first member and a second member, the first
and second members being pivotably coupled to one another at the second end of the
cable tensioner, the first and second members defining an angle therebetween, the
angle between the first and second members changing in response to the translation
of the tray and causing a change in the radius of curvature.
[0074] The first end of the cable tensioner may include a guide groove having a curve configured
to guide a cable thereon.
[0075] Alternatively, the cable tensioner may be formed from a bendable material.